The President of Saint Patrick’s College Asaba Old Boys Association (SPCOBA), Tony Odiadi, has called on the federal government to establish legal frameworks that would grant alumni associations a more direct role in managing their alma mater.

Speaking during a meeting with executive members ahead of the association’s three-day national convention scheduled for March 16 to 18 in Benin, Edo State, Odiadi noted that such instruments would empower alumni to manage resources, mentor students, and collaborate more effectively with school administrations.

The convention coincides with the school’s Founders’ Day on March 17, promising to be a blend of celebration, reflection, and strategic planning.

“At times, it looks like alumni associations are meddling, but with legal instruments, they will now have a platform and a standing to carry out the needful,” Odiadi said.

The convention will feature a range of activities, including a gala night, lectures, and visits to dignitaries and community members.

Professor Charles Asenime of Lagos State University (LASU) will deliver a lecture on school management, while former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Dele Ezeoba, will speak on communal security. The event will be chaired by Prof. Gregory Akenzua, who is the Chairman of the Board of Trustees.

The group has lined up various activities to demonstrate its commitment to community and legacy, including visits to widows of late members, a mass at St. Paul’s Church, award presentations, and engagements with sister schools.

Delegates will also meet with the school’s leadership to discuss infrastructural needs and present gift items to commemorate the occasion.

Odiadi stressed that the vision extends beyond physical development, emphasising the need for schools to invest in digital infrastructure and for alumni to collaborate with parent-teacher associations to safeguard learning experiences.

His message to alumni nationwide is to take a greater interest in their schools, contribute resources, mentor students, and uphold the values of merit, excellence, and discipline.

“Alumni must be forthcoming, interactive, engaging, and mobilise resources among themselves. These acts of charity and philanthropy build legacies that others can emulate,” Odiadi said.